By: Suha Islam
Revised by: Maya Adam
When one is asked to list healthcare workers, their first picks would be doctors, surgeons, and nurses. However, one profession that is highly overlooked is PAs (Physician Assistants). Physician assistants are in demand now more than ever.
They diagnose illnesses, assist in surgery, develop and manage treatment, and prescribe medications for patients. Similar to physicians, PAs undergo rigorous training and education to allow them to treat patients directly.
As Desmond Watt, a practicing physician assistant, explained PAs are invaluable in reducing average wait times and expanding access, especially in underserved areas where there is a high shortage of physicians. Physician assistants can serve as primary providers who offer quality care.
PAs are also extremely flexible in regards to which specialties they want to practice professionally. Physician assistant training programs are designed to cover a broad spectrum of medical disciplines, broadening their knowledge from primary care to specialized fields like surgery and cardiology.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, PAs quickly adapted to critical care and were able to fill roles in intensive care units. Without them, hospitals would have been extremely overwhelmed by just relying on their physicians for medical services.
One of the unique advantages of the profession is that physician assistants are not limited in what specialty they decide to pursue during their career, unlike most physicians.
According to PA Desmond Watt, “PAs can move across specialties. For example, I can specialize in cardiology for five years and then move into primary care, bringing that knowledge with me.” PAs are flexible as they can dive into different specialties that are in high demand.
Not to mention, PAs also help reduce costs in the healthcare industry. They provide the same service physicians do at a lower cost. Studies have shown that employing PAs in medical facilities reduces the use of emergency rooms and hospitable remission rates — these two things are factors that cost a lot once people’s medical bills come through.
Physician assistants address patients’ health issues early on and provide routine screenings. Their service helps patients maintain healthier lifestyles.
To conclude, it’s important to recognize physician assistants for the vital role that they play in the healthcare system.
The work of a physician assistant is extremely valuable as they focus on providing the best patient care and helping them manage their conditions. You can find them in different settings like from your primary care offices to specialty practices and even emergency departments.
Physician assistants are essential in building a more resilient healthcare system that is accessible to anyone and everyone.
Works Cited
American Academy of Physician Associates. “Physician Assistants Fill Gaps in Rural and Underserved Areas.” American Academy of Physician Associates, 2024.
Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Physician Assistants: Occupational Outlook Handbook.” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024,
National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. “Key Role of PAs in Addressing Healthcare Shortages.” NCCPA Health Report, 2023.
Tal Healthcare. “The Evolving Role of Physician Assistants (PAs) in Healthcare.” Tal Healthcare, Oct. 2024,
TinkBird. “5 Reasons Why Physician Assistants are Vital.” TinkBird Healthcare Staffing Blog, Aug. 2024,
Zivian Health. “The Role of Physician Assistants in Expanding Healthcare Access.” Zivian Health, 2024.
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